LCPS Alum Receives Prestigious Place on Fulbright Summer Institute to the UK

Vishnupriya Alavala, a 2022 Loudoun County Public Schools alum, has received a place on a Fulbright Summer Institute to study at Scotland’s University of Strathclyde and Glasgow School of Art on one of the most prestigious and selective summer scholarship programs operating worldwide.

Vishnupriya Alavala was selected by the US-UK Fulbright Commission to experience the UK on a three-week summer program at two top-ranked Scottish institutions in Glasgow. The program allows participants to learn about the cultural and political forces that have shaped modern Scotland, especially regarding technology, innovation and creativity. 

“Upon learning I earned a place in the UKSI, I was absolutely ecstatic at the prospect of developing my perspective at the intersection of art, technology, humanities and design in the vibrant city of Glasgow,” Vishnupriya said. “Through the Fulbright summer program, I can fully challenge myself to engage with international researchers in line with my interests in scientific discovery.” When asked about how this experience will improve her current education, Vishnupriya stated, “I hope the people I meet and the skills I gain will transform my approach to addressing inequities in Richmond during my time at VCU and beyond. I cannot wait to apply myself and mobilize my passions through this experience.” 

Participants will have the opportunity to visit the Scottish Parliament, museums, galleries, and sites of historical interest in their exploration of Glasgow and Edinburgh. The Summer Institutes form part of the US-UK Fulbright Commission’s work to promote leadership, learning and empathy between nations through educational exchange. The Commission selects participants through a rigorous application and interview process. In making these awards, the Commission looks not only for academic excellence but a focused application, a range of extracurricular and community activities, demonstrated ambassadorial skills, and a plan to give back to the recipient’s home country upon returning. 

Maria Balinska, Executive Director of the US-UK Fulbright Commission said, “Cultural exchange is a truly transformative experience, and I am excited to see this year’s UK Summer Institutes participants embark on this journey of immersing themselves in British academia and culture. I’m confident this experience will leave a lasting impression on both the participants and on those they meet and connect with during their time here.”

Vishnupriya graduated from Freedom High School and the Academies of Loudoun in 2022. She is currently studying medicine at Virginia Commonwealth University. For more information about the Fulbright Summer Institute, please visit their website.

Published May 19, 2023